Edward J. Ashnault

Edward J. Ashnault, "Coach" passed away Thursday, May 6, in Richmond, Virginia at the age of 86. Ed was quite a character but kind and would do anything for you. He was passionate about every aspect of life. Born in White Mountains of New Hampshire, Ed excelled in every sport he applied himself to. He lettered in Football, Basketball, Baseball and Skiing at Kennet High School; was the New Hampshire HS Slalom and Downhill Champion in 1952; The New England Downhill Champion in 1952; was seeded No. 1 from the East in National Junior Ski Championship in 1952; He was U.S. Special Services and skied with the 10th Mountain Division in Berchtesgaden, Germany 1953-56; Ed was classified as an Elite Class A Ski Racer named to the U.S. Olympic Alpine Team in 1959 and qualified for the 1960 Olympics but was unable to compete due to a serious injury. After serving his country Ed continued his education with a Bachelor's Degree from Plymouth State College in 1960 and a Masters Degree in Social Sciences from Fairfield University in 1963, all the while competing in college sports. Named Small College Pitcher 1st in the nation in 1960. He went on to become a teacher and Head Coach at Wilton High. He was recruited as Head Basketball Coach at Dickenson College 1964-67; Head Basketball Coach at Colgate University 1967-72; and Head Basketball Coach at The College of William and Mary 1972-74. Ed taught at Boston Celtics Rookie Training Camp 1962-78 and was Red Auerbach's Camp Director, 1974-78. Ed became an agent with MassMutual in 1975, a classic agent and a master at it. He never lost his love of sports. He enjoyed golfing in the summer and skiing every winter, sometimes competitively, Becoming the New England Nastar Ski Competition Champion in 1978 and the Virginia Nastar Ski Competition Champion in 1995 at the young age of 61. He is survived by his wife, Carol, daughters Ann Marie Fetner (Tim), Linda Meyls (George), sons Jeff Ashnault (Candace), Stephen Barr, brother Richie. 8 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. A Celebration of life will be in New Hampshire at a future date.